Thinking About Buying a 2011-2021 Explorer… What Should I Know?

I’ve always wanted a Ford Explorer, and now feels like the right time to get one. I don’t have a real need for an SUV, but I’ve never owned one and would like to try it out for a few years.

My family usually flies for holidays, but I’d like to start doing more road trips. I also ride mountain bikes, so having extra space to transport them would be a big plus.

Looking at used models, I see 2011-2015 Explorers for around €23,000 and 2021 PHEV models for around €43,000, all with under 100,000 km (62k miles).

I’m willing to spend more for reliability and fewer headaches, but I’m wondering—are the older models (2011-2015) good enough, or is it worth spending more for a newer hybrid (2021)?

Which model years should I avoid? What are the common issues? Any advice from experienced owners would be greatly appreciated!

Either go for 2010 or older, or jump straight to 2020 and newer. That internal water pump in the 2011-2019 V6s is a disaster waiting to happen.

Also, if you’re going newer, aim for 2021+. First-year models always have the most issues.

@Willow
So the 3.0 V6 Ecoboost doesn’t have the internal water pump issue?

Tobi said:
@Willow
So the 3.0 V6 Ecoboost doesn’t have the internal water pump issue?

Correct. The problem only exists in the 3.5L V6 found in the FWD-based 2011-2019 models. The newer Explorer (2020+) is RWD-based and doesn’t have that issue.

@Willow
Good to know! Thanks for the info.

Tobi said:
@Willow
Good to know! Thanks for the info.

No problem! Also, when searching, try to find one with the factory tow package. Makes a big difference.

@Willow
Don’t forget the 3.7L V6 had the same issue too.

@Willow
Wait, so does the AWD version of the V6 have the same issue?

Gale said:
@Willow
Wait, so does the AWD version of the V6 have the same issue?

Yes. If it’s got the V6, it’s got that problem. The only ones that don’t are the 4-cylinder models.

Willow said:

Gale said:
@Willow
Wait, so does the AWD version of the V6 have the same issue?

Yes. If it’s got the V6, it’s got that problem. The only ones that don’t are the 4-cylinder models.

I take it that’s because the 4-cylinder is smaller? I always thought all 2011-2015 Explorers had the internal water pump issue, since the 3.5 and 3.7 (both NA and turbo) are basically the same Duratec engine.

2017-2019 with the V6 seems to be the best option. Decent tech, most of the bugs worked out, and plenty available on the used market.

Lian said:
2017-2019 with the V6 seems to be the best option. Decent tech, most of the bugs worked out, and plenty available on the used market.

I’ve heard about more issues in those years than the older ones. But I do love the 2016+ body style.

I’d go for a 2018-2019 with the V6. Those tend to be the most reliable. If you want bulletproof reliability, a 2009-2010 V8 is an option, but they’re getting old now.

Noor said:
I’d go for a 2018-2019 with the V6. Those tend to be the most reliable. If you want bulletproof reliability, a 2009-2010 V8 is an option, but they’re getting old now.

I’d rather get something newer. My current car is a 2012 model, and I’d like to upgrade instead of going backward. Plus, my wife would not be happy if I got something older.

The ones I’m looking at are either 2021 models or 2011-2015.

We just bought a 2018 Limited with 91,000 miles, and I love it! It’s probably my favorite SUV I’ve owned or driven.

The biggest concern is engine choice. The 3.5L V6 has that dreaded internal water pump, which is expensive to replace. But the Ecoboost engines have their own issues too. So it’s kind of a pick-your-poison situation.

Personally, I’d rather deal with a water pump issue than turbo problems. Just keep an eye on coolant leaks and get an extended warranty if you can.

From what I’ve read, the 2018-2019 and some 2012-2013 models are the most reliable. Check out 1A Auto and QuiteAlright on YouTube—they break down common problems really well.

@Galen
Great info, I’ll check out those YouTube channels. Thanks!

@Galen
To be fair, the water pump can cause coolant issues too. Mine went out, got replaced, then failed again 35k miles later (2011 FPIU).

Denver said:
@Galen
To be fair, the water pump can cause coolant issues too. Mine went out, got replaced, then failed again 35k miles later (2011 FPIU).

Yeah, from what I’ve heard, the seals can fail and let coolant into the engine.

I used to have an Edge with the 2.0L Ecoboost, and those engines are notorious for cracked cylinder heads that leak coolant into the engine. Only fix is a full long block replacement… which can cost up to $10k. :weary:

I have a 2014 Limited with 114k miles—gave it to my son and it’s still running great. I also have a 2017 Sport, which still drives like a rocket.

Never had any major issues, but I did get extended warranties on both.

If you’re in an area with snow, they handle great in winter conditions!

@Roan
We don’t get much snow where I live, but it’d be useful for winter trips. Thanks for the feedback!